Page 24 - OHS, July/August 2020

PROTECTIVE APPAREL
In many cases, daily wear FR/AR garments offer key levels of protection that can cover a wide range of job site tasks.
1. daily wear garments, which provide FR and AR protection within an everyday garment worn throughout the workday, or
2. task-based garments, which are donned only when perform- ing a specific task.
Though task-based garments are used only when necessary and may seem like the obvious choice, their protection benefits are closely tied to a worker’s ability to consistently and correctly identi- fy site hazard risks. They then must appropriately and correctly put on the necessary gear to achieve the level of protection required. Task-based FR/AR garments can be compromised by human error precursors, site-risk desensitization and worker complacency— factors that are present no matter someone’s skill level.
Providing constant, unobtrusive protection, daily wear gar- ments present a clear benefit by helping address inconsistent FR/ AR garment use. Daily wear garments protect workers through- out the day with minimum additional risk assessment, as base level protection is incorporated directly into the garment that is worn all day.
The growing popularity of daily wear garments highlights the progress of FR/AR fabric technology. Twenty-five years ago, FR/ AR garments were defined by their stiff fit and uncomfortable feel. Now, branded FR/AR fabrics that form the foundation for daily wear garments feature leading textile technologies, creating a want-to-wear experience for workers. These improvements offer heightened wearability, increased comfort and maximum mobil- ity—properties that help make protective garments nearly indis- tinguishable from streetwear. From FR/AR denim to lightweight shirts, you may see these daily wear garments both on and off the job site, and their use helps keep workers protected because they are willing to wear the PPE.
Opting for daily wear apparel over task-based garments may seem like a steep investment, but the long-term benefits show value in the initial investment. Coupled with a comprehensive specification process—where safety managers look at daily wear garment needs throughout the year—a daily wear FR/AR gar- ment system actually enhances worker satisfaction and produc- tivity while prioritizing protection and increasing compliance with safety standards.
The summer presents arguably the most compelling case for daily wear FR/AR garments made with reputable fabric. These protective garments can offer moisture-wicking and breathability properties in a lightweight, easy-to-wear fabric. Certain fabrics, help wick away sweat and promote evaporation to enhance the body’s built-in cooling mechanism.
No matter the season, daily wear FR/AR garments can pro- vide a solid anchor for your PPE program. Here are a few ways a comprehensive offering of FR/AR garments promotes year-round safety in all weather conditions:
Seasonal Daily Wear Accounts
for Varying Weather
Because of the range of FR/AR fabric options, daily wear garments
can be uniquely tailored to the season. FR/AR garments for the summer months naturally look very different than what is needed for winter. These general guidelines will help you think through the seasonality of your FR/AR garments:
■ For the summer season, prioritize breathable, lightweight garments that help the wearer stay cool and comfortable.
■ For the transitional seasons, utilize similar performance- driven FR/AR textiles for your garments, but layer in appropri- ate protective garments like jackets, rain gear and base layers to adapt to changes in weather. Base layers, especially, have the flexibility to keep wearers comfortable without compromising their protection.
■ For the winter season, be sure to analyze specific consensus standards regarding heavy-weight outerwear. Generally, the outer- most layer must be FR/AR, and it may be mandated by consensus standards that additional layers be FR/AR garments, too.
As you assemble your comprehensive system, keep in mind the specific standards that apply to your industry. Especially when considering layering garments and outerwear, there is job- specific guidance surrounding non-FR garments and how—or if—they should be used. Utilizing performance-centric FR/AR base layers and daily wear helps workers achieve compliance with maximum protection.
Seasonal daily wear increases efficiency. By creating a com- plete FR/AR garment system, daily wear programs help streamline time needed both on and off the job site. When workers have ap- propriate garments for various seasons, it is easier to get ready each day. Couple that with the reducing or eliminating time donning FR PPE on the job site, workers can use their time more effectively and remain focused on the task at hand.
Seasonal daily wear standardizes appearance. A daily wear system can help implement a standard employee uniform across the company. This uniform reinforces corporate identity while still providing required safety protection. FR/AR garments can be cus- tomized to brand colors and incorporate company logos to present a united professional appearance. In prioritizing consistent protec- tion, you also can enhance your visual identity within your spheres of influence.
Seasonal daily wear furthers compliance. In many cases, daily wear FR/AR garments offer key levels of protection that can cover a wide range of job site tasks. With a general shirt and pants set, for example, wearers can be protected from flash fire or achieve up to Category 2 protection in electrical settings. Often, daily wear garments provide dual-hazard protection, in addition to their per- formance benefits.
While the heat and humidity of the summer months help make the case for performance-driven daily wear FR/AR garments, these garments are critical in any type of weather. Daily wear garments accounts for protection as a final layer of defense and helps em- ployers achieve more consistent and more routine compliance with consensus standards.
Stephen Morrill is the Marketing Manager for Westex by Milliken and works closely with the sales and technical teams to educate the industry on arc flash and flash fire hazards. He focuses on developing useful tools and relating best practices to connect with end users as they build critical FR/AR garment programs.
22 Occupational Health & Safety | JULY/AUGUST 2020
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